The stock market and your calorie count

Wall Street might be declining but your health does not have to. I wanted to write today to give you all some hope and encouragement. If you have been watching the stock market on a daily basis for the past few weeks then you are sure to be vulnerable to stress and anxiety. One day it’s up (like yesterday’s record breaking day) and then the next day it is down. Many of my clients are experiencing some level of stress due to the unpredictable financial market we have been experiencing. Prolonged stress and anxiety can lead to depression. Stress, anxiety, and depression are all hard on your physical and mental well being.

First of all, I want to say on a macro level that the market will rebound. Real estate will bounce back. Retirement is still an option. We just have to get you there.

Secondly, I want to give you a few ideas that if you implement into your life I guarantee you will feel much better. In times of hardship and stress whether it be the falling stock market, the loss of employment, rising gas prices, the upcoming elections, or a relationship conflict do not neglect the things your body and mind need most to thrive during these times. These are:

1. Sufficient sleep
2. Regular exercise
3. Proper nutrition
4. Fresh air and sunshine
5. Talking with family and/or friends

To get regular exercise you may purchase a yoga video and do that each evening after work or you might decide to hire a Fitness Together personal trainer to meet with on a regular basis. An easy way to incorporate sunshine, fresh air, and friends is to go on a lunch time walk with some co-workers. Some of the most basic things you can do for your nutrition is to drink plenty of water, get some fresh fruit and vegetables on a daily basis, eat five to six smaller meals, and watch your portion sizes. These are the very things I want for all of my clients as I try to instill in them that health and fitness is a lifestyle. And these healthy lifestyle habits are even more crucial in times of high stress and anxiety. If you are currently not doing any of these stress managing things then try to implement just one per week and see plus feel the difference.

Josiah reminds me daily that all is well!

OK. It is time for the question of the week. The first person to correctly respond with the right answer and post it as a comment to this blog will be entered to win 3 free personal training sessions just in time for your New Year’s Resolutions. The drawing will take place January 1, 2009.

Question: These are lyrics from an Alabama song. Yes, I do listen to country music!

“Well somebody told us Wall Street fell
But we were so poor that we couldn't tell
Cotton was short and the weeds were tall
But Mr. Roosevelt's a gonna save us all.”

In that same song they allude to a unique type of pie. Name that pie. The reason I ask is because this very ingredient is a great way to get in one fresh vegetable. I am not suggesting you eat the pie form because it can be loaded with a lot of sugar and fat but possible in a baked form. So, what is that pie?

So please take care of yourself this week and find some sunshine.

PJ